Liverpool assistant boss Sammy Lee admits a fit Fernando Torres is key to their title prospects. Torres has not featured since the end of November due to a hamstring problem which has dogged him for months, but is an outside bet for a place on the bench for the Boxing Day clash with Bolton at Anfield.

"When you have a world-class performer ready to come in, then of course it makes you better, and gives everyone a lift," Lee said.

"The class of Torres would obviously be missed by any team, and when he's available for us he'll be a massive addition. I know that at the start of the season no-one else thought we could be top of the table, but we did.

"We don't prepare for failure, we believed we could be top, and we believe we can stay there. We're not surprised at the position we're in."

Lee added: "Torres is improving. He's been working very, very hard with his rehabilitation.

"As regards the Christmas period, I will say his rehab is coming on well.

"You have to try to take the positives from any negative situation. It wasn't nice to have him injured or missing but that's football. It's the nature of the game, and he has had a break and will be back fresh now.

"I think it speaks volumes for the squad that they have managed to get to the top without Fernando for long periods.

"It's Christmas and we are still top. That shows the commitment, desire, character and togetherness of this football club."